Your HVAC system is the biggest consumer of energy in your home. In fact, there’s a good chance it’s using more power than it needs to. Fortunately, there are a few simple tricks for reducing waste and maximizing efficiency. Here are some of the biggest HVAC energy wasters in your home and what to do about them.
- Vents. The most basic part of HVAC is that air needs to be able to reach your home to heat or cool it. If you have furniture or other obstructions in front of your vents, not as much air can enter your home. Thus, your system needs to work harder to get to the temperature it needs to be at, running longer and wasting energy. Make sure there’s plenty of clearance in front of all of your vents to maintain proper airflow.
- Ducts. Sometimes, air leaks out before it even reaches your vents. Ductwork leaks can cause energy losses up to 30% and be one of the biggest HVAC energy wasters. Look for pinhole leaks, tears, and places where two sections of ductwork have come apart. Repair them with metal tape or mastic sealant. Never use duct tape, as air can leak out underneath it. Also ensure that your ducts are properly insulated so that the air inside maintains its temperature on the way to your home.
- Filters. As dust builds up in your filter, it restricts airflow, wasting energy and overworking your system. Checking your filter regularly and replacing it when needed will both lower your energy consumption and help your system last longer. Additionally, you can keep your filter from needing replacement as often by dusting and vacuuming regularly to reduce the amount of dust in the air.
- Thermostat. If you can stand to be a few degrees warmer in summer and a bit colder in winter, it can reduce your energy usage significantly. The Department of Energy’s recommended HVAC settings are 75 to 78 degrees in the summer and 65 to 68 degrees in winter, for optimum balance between comfort and efficiency and to avoid another of the big HVAC energy wasters.
For help getting rid of the HVAC energy wasters in your home, contact us at Hansberger Refrigeration and Electric Company. We provide comfort and efficiency for the Yuma area.
